5 Steps to Create Your Own Career Path

5 Steps to Create Your Own Career PathWhether youre a recent grad trying to plan your next steps, hoping to move up in the ranks in your current office, a career changer whos ready for new professional opportunities, or returning to the workforce after time away, The National Association of Professional Women has provided a list of planning tips to get you started googletag.cmd.push(function() googletag.display(div-gpt-ad-1467144145037-0) ) Step 1 EvaluateFirst things firstbegin by taking stock of your current job or skill-set are there potential opportunities for advancement? Are you satisfied there? Do you need to look into new certifications or positions that might interest you more?Step 2 Write It DownWhether you like to write on paper or type a note in your phone, capture your brainstorming in some visual way so you can refer back to it regularly. Its the best way to hold yourself accountable to your list of goals and career objectives.Step 3 NetworkFrom senior colleagues to me ntors from past educational or professional opportunities, chances are you already know people who can help you learn more about the field youre hoping to enter or advance in. Ask questions, take people out for coffee, reconnect online, and attend local career fairs in search of advice and behind-the-scenes insights. Your friends and co-workers cant help you find it if they dont know what youre looking forStep 4 Seek HelpYou may want to consider working with a professional career coach, who can assess your background and potential objectively, to help prepare and motivate your quest to make significant career changes. Temp agencies may also be able to help you find short term gigs that pay the bills, fill your resume and keep you busy.Step 5 Monitor and ReviewChange doesnt happen overnightcheck in with your list of goals, be patient, and take it from the National Association of Professional WomenRemember, be flexible, stay positive and keep forging ahead.Remember to take good care o f yourself toowhether youre searching for an entirely new job or hoping to make changes in your current role, it can be stressful and time-consuming, but taking the time to self-evaluate and make a wish-list can help you stay focused and identify opportunities to make progress.5 Steps to Creating a Career Path That Will Work For YouRead More at The Business Journals